Leadership, 2 words at a time
Simple Truths for Leading Complicated People
Section titled “Simple Truths for Leading Complicated People”Take-Aways
Section titled “Take-Aways”- New leaders need a steady, experienced hand for the bumpy journey ahead.
- Remember leadership lessons in clear two-word phrases.
- Self-discovery is a prerequisite for effective leadership.
- Be a role model for the people you lead.
- Harsh reality sets in when the excitement of being a new leader wanes.
- Take care of yourself and show some self-respect.
- Beware of leadership’s creeping, seductive power.
- Threat and intimidation rule when trust is absent.
Remember Leadership Lessons in Clear Two-word phrases”
Section titled “Remember Leadership Lessons in Clear Two-word phrases””Boil every important leadership concept down to two words.
- “Calm confidence” - remind yourself how you want to appear in an important meeting.
- “Talk less” - if you tend to interrupt
- “Deliver goodness” – Each morning, American founding father Benjamin Franklin asked himself, “What good shall I do this day?” Before he went to bed, he asked, “What good have I done today?”
- “Take notes” – To show respect, take notes when people report to you. This also helps you maintain accurate records.
- “Tidy up” – Don’t let your workspace become disorderly.
- “Showcase setbacks” – Don’t tell arrogant stories about your heroics. Tell stories about when life got the better of you so that people can identify with you.
- “Explore beliefs” – Be aware of other people’s spiritual beliefs and respect them.
- “Get associated” Join your industry’s professional organization to network and stay current.
- “Don’t brown-nose” –Toadies get no respect. Ask your boss if he or she wants you to be honest, even when you disagree or have bad news.
- “Give access” – When working with high-level leaders, ask them to speak directly with your team to give them access to executives.
- “Model courage” – Be first to take a brave leap forward; your team will follow.
- “Normalize discomfort” – Experiencing discomfort is a healthy part of growth. Don’t let it hold you or your team back.
- “Provide cover” – Sometimes, leaders unfairly criticize teams that are not their direct reports. Stand up and provide cover for your team.
Self-discovery is a Prerequisite for effective Leadership
Section titled “Self-discovery is a Prerequisite for effective Leadership”You must know yourself intimately to lead others. Integrity is a leader’s most important trait.
Be a Role Model for the People You Lead
Section titled “Be a Role Model for the People You Lead”Your team members will reflect your actions and attitudes.
Take Care of Yourself and Show Some Self-respect
Section titled “Take Care of Yourself and Show Some Self-respect”Stress is a common foe. Left unmanaged, it can damage your health.
Beware of Leadership’s Creeping, Seductive Power
Section titled “Beware of Leadership’s Creeping, Seductive Power”The attention and power you gain as a leader are seductive. People carry out your orders without objection and applaud your decisions.